Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Beverage Distribution Partner
Empire Distributors has been a trusted leader in beverage distribution for over 80 years, specializing in spirits, wine, and beer. Founded in 1940 as a family-owned business, we combine the personalized service of a local operation with the resources of Berkshire Hathaway to deliver exceptional value to suppliers and customers. Our commitment to Building Brands and Developing People drives our nationwide expansion across 14 facilities in four states. With a focus on innovation and relationships, we provide cutting-edge logistics, in-house printing services, and tailored promotional solutions to support our partners' growth.Our team of industry experts brings decades of experience, ensuring responsive service and strategic insights that elevate our clients' success. As a socially responsible company, we prioritize community impact through initiatives like our partnership with the Foundation for Advancing Alcohol Responsibility. From our state-of-the-art Georgia headquarters to our local representatives in every market, we blend tradition with modern efficiency to maintain our position as an industry leader.
Services
Spirits Distribution
Wine Distribution
Beer Distribution
Promotional Materials
Printing Services
Details
- Year established: 1940
Highlights and features
- We combine 80 years of beverage distribution expertise with Berkshire Hathaway resources
- Our local representatives provide personalized service backed by cutting-edge technology
- We offer in-house printing and promotional materials tailored to brand needs
- Our team includes Certified Wine Educators and Advanced Sommeliers for expert guidance
- We maintain a 100% coverage commitment across all markets we serve
What people say
Exceptional launch support
Family-oriented culture
Personal relationships
Industry expertise
Local knowledge
Services
Spirits Distribution
Our spirits distribution service provides comprehensive logistics solutions for premium liquor brands across four states. With temperature-controlled storage and delivery fleets, we ensure product integrity while leveraging market-specific strategies to maximize brand visibility. Our team of certified experts works closely with suppliers to develop tailored distribution plans that optimize market penetration and sales growth.
Wine Distribution
We offer specialized wine distribution services handling both bulk and bottled products from boutique vineyards to international brands. Our state-of-the-art facilities maintain optimal storage conditions, while our sales representatives provide market insights to enhance brand positioning. Through strategic route optimization, we guarantee timely deliveries that preserve wine quality and freshness.
Promotional Materials
Our in-house print facility creates customized promotional materials including wine lists, shelf talkers, and point-of-sale displays. Using high-quality materials and modern design techniques, we help brands craft visually compelling marketing assets that drive consumer engagement and increase product visibility in both on-premise and off-premise locations.
Local Representation
Each territory is supported by dedicated local representatives who combine market knowledge with industry expertise. These professionals provide personalized service, maintain strong retailer relationships, and implement brand-specific strategies to boost sales performance through targeted outreach and real-time market feedback.
Printing Services
Our full-service printing capabilities produce professional sales and promotional materials tailored to beverage brands' needs. From custom bottle neckers to window clings and table tents, we ensure consistent brand messaging across all marketing collateral while maintaining quick turnaround times for time-sensitive promotions.
People
David Kahn
President & CEO
Third-generation leader with 30+ years in beverage distribution, combining family tradition with Berkshire Hathaway resources to drive national expansion and operational innovation.
Jim Schwarzkopf
EVP, CFO
Finance executive with 35+ years experience, overseeing financial operations and community engagement initiatives while maintaining fiscal responsibility across Empire's growing network.
Gary Wolfe
VP, COO
Operations leader with extensive industry experience, managing sales divisions and supplier relationships to optimize distribution efficiency and brand development strategies.
Eric Crane
Director of Training
Certified Wine Educator and Advanced Sommelier leading training programs, combining beverage expertise with professional development to enhance team capabilities and customer service standards.
David Henry
Business Development Manager
Industry veteran with 25+ years experience, focusing on strategic growth initiatives and maintaining strong supplier-retailer relationships to drive market expansion and brand success.
Questions
What states does Empire Distributors operate in?
We serve Georgia, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Colorado through 14 strategically located distribution centers.
How does Empire support brand growth?
We combine local market expertise with national resources to create tailored distribution strategies and promotional campaigns that maximize brand visibility and sales.
What makes Empire different from other distributors?
Our family-owned heritage, Berkshire Hathaway backing, and commitment to personalized service create a unique blend of tradition and innovation.
Do you offer custom marketing materials?
Yes, our in-house print facility creates customized promotional assets including wine lists, shelf talkers, and point-of-sale displays.
What sustainability initiatives do you have?
We actively support community well-being through partnerships like the Foundation for Advancing Alcohol Responsibility and implement eco-friendly practices in our operations.
